TESCO has removed sweets and chocolates from check-outs in all its stores in Hillingdon.

The retailer took sweets away from the check-out at larger stores in 1994, but the policy now applies to every store, including Tesco Metro and Express convenience stores, which number more than 500 stores in London. In all, there are 14 stores in Hillingdon.

Tesco made the decision in an attempt to reduce “pester power” and promote healthier lifestyles. Its own research shows that 65 percent of customers say removing sweets from the check-out helps.

David Wood, its managing director of Health and Wellness, said: “As a parent of two young children myself, I know how challenging it can be to navigate the check-outs with children in tow. The response we’ve had from parents has been overwhelmingly positive.”

Sweets and chocolates have been replaced by a variety of healthier snacks, including dried fruit, nuts and cereal bars.